A 0.45V CMOS relaxation oscillator with ±2.5% frequency stability from -55°C to 125°C.

Low-power and low-voltage oscillators are critical for many autonomous systems. Ultra low-power and low-voltage operation can enable these systems to remain functional under extreme supply conditions while consuming very little energy. Stable operation under these conditions and over a wide temperature range can be very challenging. This paper1 presents the design of a relaxation oscillator that operates under 0.5V and consumes less than a 100nW and is thus suitable for many autonomous applications. Despite of the low supply voltage, simulation results shows a relaxation oscillator with a frequency stability better than ±2.5% from −55°C to 125°C.